Welcome
Welcome M1s! Congratulations on being accepted into the beginning of what is the greatest profession in the world. You have come a long way to get here and what a relief it is. Do not get too comfortable though! The journey ahead is still long and hard, filled with new learning experiences, trials and challenges, all of which result in the same thing…the transformation of a medical student into a licensed physician.
Someone once said that, “Experience is a dear teacher but fools learn by no other.” As a result, medical students from long ago who have once been in our shoes and graduated decided to go the extra mile and help the rest of us to learn not just by experience but also by advice. The student-to-student guide is a tradition here at UIC. It is a compilation of what may be to some, priceless pearls of wisdom and yet to others, nothing more than wasted ink on dead trees. However you look at it the student-to-student guide contains information about classes, books, organizations, and other tips for surviving your first year of medical school. Some of the information here is new but most has been passed on from earlier medical student generations.
In any case, take it (the advice) or leave it. Everyone has different opinions and experiences. Everyone deals with things differently, so when all is said and done, do what works for you! This guide however, should give you and inkling of what to expect in your first year of medical school. Be careful at the same time though. The disclaimer involved with this guide is as follows: DO NOT base any major decisions solely on what is contained in this guide. Due to rapid and sometimes unexpected changes, all the information contained here is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. Again, advice is only advice. It does not mean that it is the cold hard truth. Be wise, what more can I say?
On a personal note, BALANCE is the key to conquering the demanding schedule of medical school. You will never have time to read every single book, every single handout, or personal class notes. Develop good study skills early on, or just stick with what worked for you in your undergraduate or graduate studies. Do not feel like you need to eat the whole cake all at once, just one bite at a time. Remember to go have fun but be wise with your time. Take study breaks and power naps! Develop a sleep schedule and stick to it! If things start to get overwhelming, talk to someone. See your advisor, talk to classmates, professors, even the Office of Student Affairs. Fine help if you need it. Do not procrastinate when getting the help and support you need. You are not alone! Study hard so you can play hard! Good Luck!!
Someone once said that, “Experience is a dear teacher but fools learn by no other.” As a result, medical students from long ago who have once been in our shoes and graduated decided to go the extra mile and help the rest of us to learn not just by experience but also by advice. The student-to-student guide is a tradition here at UIC. It is a compilation of what may be to some, priceless pearls of wisdom and yet to others, nothing more than wasted ink on dead trees. However you look at it the student-to-student guide contains information about classes, books, organizations, and other tips for surviving your first year of medical school. Some of the information here is new but most has been passed on from earlier medical student generations.
In any case, take it (the advice) or leave it. Everyone has different opinions and experiences. Everyone deals with things differently, so when all is said and done, do what works for you! This guide however, should give you and inkling of what to expect in your first year of medical school. Be careful at the same time though. The disclaimer involved with this guide is as follows: DO NOT base any major decisions solely on what is contained in this guide. Due to rapid and sometimes unexpected changes, all the information contained here is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. Again, advice is only advice. It does not mean that it is the cold hard truth. Be wise, what more can I say?
On a personal note, BALANCE is the key to conquering the demanding schedule of medical school. You will never have time to read every single book, every single handout, or personal class notes. Develop good study skills early on, or just stick with what worked for you in your undergraduate or graduate studies. Do not feel like you need to eat the whole cake all at once, just one bite at a time. Remember to go have fun but be wise with your time. Take study breaks and power naps! Develop a sleep schedule and stick to it! If things start to get overwhelming, talk to someone. See your advisor, talk to classmates, professors, even the Office of Student Affairs. Fine help if you need it. Do not procrastinate when getting the help and support you need. You are not alone! Study hard so you can play hard! Good Luck!!
